NCERT Class 11 Art & Culture — Chapter 6: Temple Architecture and Sculpture

mcqeasy

In Nagara temple architecture, the term 'Amalaka' refers to:

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

AThe arched entrance gateway
BThe vertical axis representing the cosmic pillar
CA horizontal fluted disc at the apex of the shikhara
DThe base platform or plinth of the temple

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is A horizontal fluted disc at the apex of the shikhara.

Explanation

The Nagara style of temple architecture, which developed prominently in Northern India, is characterized by a curvilinear tower known as the Shikhara (or Rekha-Prasada). The elevation of a Nagara temple follows a specific vertical hierarchy of architectural members.

Detailed Analysis:

Amalaka: This term refers to the large, fluted, or ribbed stone disc placed at the apex of the Shikhara. It resembles the Indian gooseberry (amla) in shape. In the Nagara style, the Amalaka sits directly on top of the tower's neck (Griva) and supports the Kalasha (the finial or pot-like structure). It is considered a symbol of the celestial world.
Comparison with other options:
- The vertical axis representing the cosmic pillar is a symbolic concept (Axis Mundi) rather than the specific architectural member named Amalaka.
- The base platform or plinth is technically called the Jagati or Pitha.
- The arched entrance gateway is typically known as a Torana (common in Buddhist and early Hindu architecture) or simply the Dvara.

Key Takeaway:
The Amalaka is the distinctive horizontal, ribbed stone disc crowning the Shikhara in Nagara temple architecture, situated immediately below the Kalasha.

Your note

More from Chapter 6: Temple Architecture and Sculpture

Which of the following temple groups is renowned for the 'Bangla roof' style that subsequently influenced Mughal architecture?

medium

With reference to the basic form of the Hindu temple, consider the following statements: 1. The garbhagriha was originally a small cubicle with a single entrance which later grew into a larger chamber. 2. The mandapa is the main sanctum sanctorum of the temple. 3. The mount or vehicle of the temple’s main deity is placed axially behind the sanctum to guard the rear entrance. Which of the statements given above are correct?

medium

Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the code given below: List I | List II A. Amalaka | 1. Motif resembling a cow-eye or arch B. Kalasha | 2. Composite mythical beast C. Gavaksha | 3. Vase or pot placed on top of the amalaka D. Vyala | 4. Horizontal fluted disc at the top of the shikhara

easy

easy

Consider the following statements regarding the sub-types of Nagara temple architecture: 1. Latina buildings are characterized by a flat roof structure. 2. Phamsana buildings tend to be broader and shorter than Latina ones. 3. Valabhi buildings have a roof that rises into a vaulted chamber, similar to a wagon-vault. Which of the statements given above are correct?

hard

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The correct option is A horizontal fluted disc at the apex of the shikhara.

Explanation

Detailed Analysis:

Amalaka: This term refers to the large, fluted, or ribbed stone disc placed at the apex of the Shikhara. It resembles the Indian gooseberry (amla) in shape. In the Nagara style, the Amalaka sits directly on top of the tower's neck (Griva) and supports the Kalasha (the finial or pot-like structure). It is considered a symbol of the celestial world.
Comparison with other options:
- The vertical axis representing the cosmic pillar is a symbolic concept (Axis Mundi) rather than the specific architectural member named Amalaka.
- The base platform or plinth is technically called the Jagati or Pitha.
- The arched entrance gateway is typically known as a Torana (common in Buddhist and early Hindu architecture) or simply the Dvara.

Key Takeaway:
The Amalaka is the distinctive horizontal, ribbed stone disc crowning the Shikhara in Nagara temple architecture, situated immediately below the Kalasha.